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Franklin

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 0, age appropriate for kids over 3; suggested age 3.

  • Is it any good?

    5.0
  • Common Sense says

    Responsible TV; great for preschoolers.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 3 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    Even though they may disagree, Franklin and his friends always respect each other.

What to watch out for

  • Violence & scariness:

    Not an issue.
  • Sexy stuff:

    Not an issue.
  • Language:

    Not an issue.
  • Consumerism:

    Not an issue.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Not an issue.

What Parents Need to Know

This review of Franklin was written by Joly Herman

Parents need to know that this show is highly recommended for preschoolers and has no worrisome content. The characters are good role models, and the pace and situations are age-appropriate. It's a rare show that celebrates the innocence of childhood.

Families Can Talk About

Talk to your kids about the media in their life. We have more tools and tips that can help
  • Families can talk about voicing opinions. Sometimes Franklin's parents and friends have opinions that differ from Franklin's. How can people voice their views without hurting one another? How can opinions be helpful? What does tolerance mean?
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Will your kids tune in?

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More on Franklin

What’s the Story?

Based on a children's book by Paulette Bourgeois and Brenda Clark, FRANKLIN is about a turtle who is trying to figure out his place in the world. He lives in a village where he and his friends enjoy swimming in the pond, playing outdoors, and going to school. Yes! They enjoy school. For this and other refreshing reasons, parents will feel comfortable letting their preschoolers tune in. Franklin is an every-turtle who is learning his way in his world, and he knows he is growing up. Such self-awareness makes this turtle, who keeps his stuffed animal dog around even when he has outgrown it, very sympathetic indeed. Some educational content and gentle moral lessons add even more value to the series.

Is It Any Good?

p>Franklin is a program that takes for granted respect for elders and vice versa. There is no whining, fighting, yelling, provocation, or aggravation. Plus, the characters actually enjoy school -- and for good reason, as teacher Owl sets a wonderful example of how learning can be engaging and fun. Each character has his or her own way of doing things, and all ways are respected. When he is stuck in a rut, Franklin's friends Bear and Beaver encourage him to try new things, like playing different games or beginning a collection. And even when he is challenged by new concepts, Franklin has the support of his family to help him grow.

Thanks to our Canadian neighbors, who have created and produced this program, a glimpse of tranquil living not so often found on the airwaves has been handed to American viewers. Franklin ultimately sets a good example of responsible television programming.

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Our Members Say

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Most Recent Reviews

  1. Parent Reviewer
    I rate this title on for age 3 and give it 5.0
    • My highlights are:
    • Educational
    • Positive messages
    • Good role models

    Just right forthe little ones.

    My 14 year old grandson loved Franklin, now my 3 year old is watching it too. I loveit

  2. Kid Reviewer Age 12
    I rate this title on for age 3 and give it 5.0
    • My highlights are:
    • Educational
    • Positive messages
    • Good role models

    perfect

    i used to wtch this.

  3. Adult Reviewer
    Lives in Virginia
    I rate this title on for age 2 and give it 5.0

    Franklin is the bomb!

    I love this show! My kids used to have the books. Everytime I see it, I feel so happy! Go, Franklin!

  4. Adult Reviewer
    Lives in New York
    I rate this title on for age 12 and give it 5.0

    i love this show

  5. Parent Reviewer
    Lives in Texas
    I rate this title on for age 2 and give it 5.0

    Wonderful for children

    A great show for kids. The animation is crisp and clean and it teaches the many values of everday life. I recommend this for kids of all ages and those who are kids at heart.

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